For the first time since February of 1999, the Salukis were defeated by the Drake Bulldogs. The Dawgs trailed by 5 at the half, but failed to close the gap after intermission and the final margin was 10... 61-51.
The Salukis were led by Wesley Clemmons who finished with 13. Matt Shaw and Randal Falker were limited by early foul trouble and combined for 12 points. As a team, the Dawgs shot just 39% from the field and were 6 of 13 from the free throw line. Too many empty possessions and not enough trips to the foul line continue to plague the Salukis.
The Bulldogs hit 20 of 30 from the charity stripe and Josh Young finished with 24. At this point, I have to admit that Drake is a Valley title contender. They can outshoot a zone and outquick a man-to-man. Since the jerseys still say "Drake," they will have to prove themselves every step of the way, but they certainly looked strong in this contest.
The Salukis are in action again this Saturday at Illinois State. The Redbirds have knocked off Creighton and Wichita State, both on the road, to start Valley play.
